Outlaw Prophet: Warren Jeffs is a biographical drama film released in 2014. The movie chronicles the rise to power of Warren Jeffs, the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a Mormon sect that practices polygamy. The film depicts how Jeffs came to dominate the group after the death of his father, Rulon Jeffs.
As Jeffs assumes control of the sect, he becomes increasingly authoritarian and demanding. He marries numerous women, some of whom are underage, and exerts strict control over every aspect of his followers' lives. Jeffs' often brutal methods of discipline and punishment alienate many of his followers. Some of his former wives and dissidents within the group form an alliance to bring him to justice.
The film follows the efforts of the various characters to stop Jeffs' abusive behavior and expose the FLDS' illegal activities. Jeffs eventually flees the law and goes into hiding, but he is eventually captured and convicted of multiple charges, including sexual assault and child abuse. He is currently serving a life sentence in prison.
The movie received mixed reviews, with some critics praising it for its compelling story and strong performances, while others criticized it for glossing over some of the more egregious acts committed by Jeffs and the FLDS. However, the film remains an important and timely examination of the dangers of cults and the abuses of power that can occur within them.